MORE than 15,000 applications have been received by Virgin Trains after it advertised for 78 new drivers on the East Coast Mainline, The Northern Echo can reveal.

The staggering figure means for each post there are nearly 200 applicants and it is likely to mean a huge task for bosses to narrow the number down.

Virgin announced earlier this month that it was searching for new recruits to join a “new era” of rail, as it prepares to take delivery of its new fleet of Azuma trains, built by Hitachi at Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

The 65-strong fleet is due to launch on East Coast in 2018 and will replace much of its existing fleet. Applicants were only given a week to apply, had to be aged over 21 and live within an hour of either Newcastle, Leeds, London Kings’ Cross and Doncaster.

Successful recruits undergo a year-long development programme, beginning in January next year, before they become fully-qualified trainee train drivers.

This includes a mix of classroom-based and ‘on the job’ learning.

They will also use a state-of-the art train simulator in order to further familiarise themselves with the train cab.

Virgin has not revealed salary details for the posts, but fully qualified, experienced train drivers can eventually earn more than £55,000 a year.

A spokesman for Virgin Trains said: “We have received a huge amount of interest in this fantastic opportunity at Virgin Trains on the East Coast route.

"We’re really excited that so many people want to come and join our company.

“Our talent team are working hard to process and update all of the applications received.

"Those who have been successful in getting through the first stages of the process will be invited to attend a selection day.

"This will include a variety of assessments and exercises that will bring the best talent into our business.”

On its website Virgin Trains says staff receive a "generous" benefits package and can use its trains for free.

:: The Northern rail franchise has introduced 14 new young people into its business, including four graduates.

Franchise owner Arriva said it was part of a new scheme aiming to create a range of opportunities for ambitious individuals and introduce them to careers in the railway industry.